Green County Mobilizes to Solve Child Care Crisis

Corrine Hendrickson often gets stopped at the grocery store by community members who want to discuss child care issues.
In Green County, it’s all hands on deck to fix the child care crisis

Article Summary –

Residents in Green County, Wisconsin, are increasingly engaging in conversations about the ongoing child care crisis, thanks to efforts by the Green County Child Care Network. The network has successfully raised awareness by highlighting the impact of child care issues on job growth, quality of life, and future generations, and this has led to community and organizational support, including significant state grants distributed by the Green County Development Corporation. While these local efforts have provided temporary relief and fostered a sense of community among child care providers, there is a consensus that more extensive state and federal support is necessary for lasting change.


Recently, Corrine Hendrickson has been frequently stopped at the grocery store by locals wanting to discuss child care.

They often read her columns or attended an information session by the Green County Child Care Network, where she serves as secretary. The nonprofit aims to shift the narrative on the child care crisis.

“It’s successful because it involves all of us,” said Brooke Legler, co-owner of the Growing Tree in New Glarus and network member.

There are few networks like it in the state, offering support to child care providers. When it started in 1991, there were 97 providers in Green County; now there are only 32, according to Hendrickson.

Child care has traditionally been a siloed industry, Legler said, but the network is changing that by amplifying issues through columns and billboards, highlighting how child care impacts job growth and quality of life. Hendrickson believes this has shifted Green County’s mindset.

“Our conversation has changed to acknowledge that we are professionals and vital to our community,” Hendrickson said.

The Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) joined the effort, distributing $80,000 in state grants to help providers with licensing, professional development, and infrastructure needs.

GCDC’s executive director, Olivia Otte, noted it’s unusual for GCDC to be involved as child care isn’t typically seen as an economic issue. However, they aim to reframe it as essential for economic growth.

“It provides hope and helps recognize child care professionals and their economic role,” Otte said.

The grant allowed Hendrickson to hire help to complete the University of Wisconsin’s Infant, Early Childhood and Family Mental Health Capstone Certificate Program. Legler’s staff used grant money for required continuing education, covering class costs and paying $20 an hour.

Valerie Johnson used grant funds to pave her driveway and plans to replace the air conditioning. Beyond funding, the network helped her feel less isolated and affirmed her work’s importance.

“It motivates me to keep going,” Johnson said.

Despite local efforts, the systemic problem persists. GCDC grants provide temporary relief, but more state and federal aid is needed for lasting impact.

The collaboration at the local level has been crucial for their success, emphasizing the value of child care workers as field experts.

“We need those relationships and acknowledgment of issues to find solutions,” Legler said.

Others are now approaching the network for assistance. Local Lions Clubs invite them to speak, area banks donate festival tips, and New Glarus Brewing Company launched a professional development grant for child care workers.

Hendrickson encourages other Wisconsin communities to replicate Green County’s efforts, even if starting small. She advises being bold in asking for what is needed.

“Have the audacity to ask for what you need,” she said. “Don’t go small, go big.”


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